Nut-Free Caramel Squares
Indulge in the velvety sweetness of Nut-Free Caramel Squares, a decadent dessert designed for caramel lovers who need a nut-free alternative. These irresistible treats feature a buttery shortbread base that provides the perfect foundation for a rich, homemade caramel layer made from brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and honey. With no nuts in sight, they’re ideal for allergy-conscious dessert tables or gatherings. Simple yet satisfying, this recipe comes together in just an hour of combined prep and cook time, making it a convenient choice for busy bakers. Whether served as bite-sized delights for a party or enjoyed as an afternoon treat, these luscious squares are guaranteed to impress. Perfect for nut-free desserts, caramel recipes, and easy sweet treats, Nut-Free Caramel Squares will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to allow for easy removal of the caramel squares.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of the unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent bubbling.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it is light golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and honey.
Stir the mixture continuously until everything has melted and the mixture is smooth.
Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue stirring constantly and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and turns a deeper golden color.
Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the caramel over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Let the caramel squares sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before refrigerating to set completely for another 30 minutes.
Once set, lift the parchment to remove the caramel from the pan and cut into 16 squares.
Serve the squares as a sweet treat, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4416 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 132.9 g | 170% | |
| Saturated Fat | 78.2 g | 391% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 383 mg | 128% | |
| Sodium | 1747 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 776.3 g | 282% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 592.0 g | ||
| Protein | 57.2 g | 114% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1307 mg | 101% | |
| Iron | 13.1 mg | 73% | |
| Potassium | 1978 mg | 42% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
